Inheritance by faith is a central theme in Christian theology, emphasizing the spiritual legacy and promises granted to believers through faith in Jesus Christ. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where faith is portrayed as the means by which individuals receive the promises of God, transcending ethnic, cultural, and legal boundaries.

Old Testament Foundations

The idea of inheritance by faith can be traced back to the patriarch Abraham, who is often cited as the exemplar of faith. In Genesis 15:6, it is written, "Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness." This foundational moment establishes the principle that righteousness and the subsequent inheritance of God's promises are granted through faith, not by works or adherence to the law.

The promises made to Abraham included the inheritance of the land, numerous descendants, and the blessing of all nations through his seed (Genesis 12:1-3; 17:4-8). These promises were not only for Abraham's physical descendants but also for those who would share in his faith.

New Testament Fulfillment

The New Testament expands on the concept of inheritance by faith, particularly through the teachings of the Apostle Paul. In Galatians 3:7-9, Paul writes, "Understand, then, that those who have faith are sons of Abraham. The Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and foretold the gospel to Abraham: 'All nations will be blessed through you.' So those who have faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith."

Paul further elaborates in Romans 4:13-16, explaining that the promise to Abraham and his offspring was not through the law but through the righteousness of faith. He states, "For the promise to Abraham and his offspring that he would be heir of the world was not given through the law, but through the righteousness that comes by faith."

Inheritance in Christ

The ultimate fulfillment of inheritance by faith is found in Jesus Christ. Believers are considered co-heirs with Christ, as stated in Romans 8:17: "And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him." This inheritance includes eternal life, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the promise of a future resurrection.

Ephesians 1:13-14 highlights the role of the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of this inheritance: "And in Him, having heard and believed the word of truth—the gospel of your salvation—you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession, to the praise of His glory."

Faith and the Law

The relationship between faith and the law is a significant aspect of the doctrine of inheritance by faith. The law, given through Moses, served as a tutor to lead people to Christ, that they might be justified by faith (Galatians 3:24). However, the law itself could not grant the inheritance; it is through faith in Christ that believers become heirs of the promise.

Hebrews 11, often referred to as the "Faith Hall of Fame," recounts the accounts of Old Testament figures who lived by faith, looking forward to the fulfillment of God's promises. Hebrews 11:39-40 states, "These were all commended for their faith, yet they did not receive what was promised. God had planned something better for us, so that together with us they would be made perfect."

Conclusion

Inheritance by faith underscores the transformative power of faith in the life of a believer. It is through faith that individuals are grafted into the family of God, becoming heirs to the promises made to Abraham and fulfilled in Christ. This inheritance is not based on human effort or adherence to the law but is a gift of grace, accessible to all who believe.